Summer is here!Well at least officially, since no one has told the clouds to go away. I really enjoyed the few hours of sun I managed to get last week, yet I am eager to break out my rollerblades again soon.

Do you have holiday plans this summer? Planning to get away and enjoy some time relaxing, away from the demands of work and life? Did you know that generally, people tend to feel more relaxed about their work when they are just about to leave for holidays?It seems kind of odd to say that because it means walking away even though work is still on the table. Yet there are good reasons that many feel more relaxed before leaving on a trip. Mainly it is because most people will take time to review all of their outstanding commitments prior. They review their tasks, get as much done as possible, delegate to others and they defer as much as they can, until after their return. This doesn’t mean getting everything done. There are still tasks waiting for us to come back to, yet there is a sense of relief that comes from putting tasks in perspective and having a plan.Trip or no trip, are you ready to take a holiday from the ‘State of Overwhelm’ now?Here are five steps to help you gain more piece of mind today...Step one:Grab a pad of paper and a pen. Yes, you can do this in electronic format on your computer, it’s your choice. I prefer pen and paper for this myself.Step two: Write down all of your ‘outstanding tasks’. Everything on your brain and every little reminder on the post-it notes you have dispersed around your office or home. Capture every errand, call, appointment, must read, chore, etc.Step three: Divide it up a bit. You know ‘errands with errands’ and ‘calls with calls’. Organize it in a way that works best for you and be sure to highlight the items of greater importance. Step four: Review the list and see if you can cross some things off. If you have things that ‘would be nice’ but are not necessary, put them on your ‘someday/maybe’ list. Step five: If it must be done, or has a deadline, get it in your calendar. Get the stones down, as they say.If you are hesitating to do this because you feel so overwhelmed and think ‘I just don’t have time, it will take too long’, try it anyway. The reality is that it won’t take as long as you think, and it truly will save you time and energy. When you write things down and gather your ‘outstanding tasks’ in one place, they become visible and more manageable. Also, you are taking away the burden you place on your subconscious by forcing your mind to try and remember every thing at once.The truth is, if you find out you have too much on your plate, you’ll really know it’s time to get some help and support. (That's me.) You’ll also be more inclined to be a little more ruthless about crossing stuff off your list. On the other hand, imagine how great it will feel to look over this list, plan your important tasks and be reassured that you can get what needs to be done, done!Have you tried it? I would love to hear about your success. Post a note on the blog and share your experience with us.